Berlin

Berlin is a city state, meaning it is both a city and a state. It is Germany's capital. Berlin is also Germany's largest city, as well as the European Union's second largest city. It has a population of 3.4 million (as of September 2010).

Berlin is one of the most influential political centers within the European Union, as well as its most visited city. It is also an important economic, cultural, and educational center in Germany. Berlin's universities, research facilities, theaters, museums, festivals, night life, and architecture have attained international recognition.

Historically, Berlin has been capital city of various German states: Brandenburg, Prussia (Preußen), and the Democratic Republic of Germany (East Germany). Since the German Reunification on October 3, 1990, Berlin has been the capital for the reunified Germany.
Culinary Specialties of Berlin

Cooking in the German state of Berlin is simple and down-to-earth and meals are hearty and satisfying. Cooking here has been influenced by the immigrants from neighboring regions. Very common in Berlin are dishes with pork, goose, fish (such as carp, eel, and pike), cabbage, legumes (such as peas, lentils, turnips, and beans), pickles, and potatoes.